Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata

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As soon as the first ripe peaches of summer arrive at the market, I know exactly what I’m making: Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata. This dish is the essence of warm-weather dining — juicy, sun-kissed peaches layered with creamy burrata, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s the kind of salad that looks like it took effort but comes together in minutes with ingredients that shine on their own.

I love how it turns something simple into something so elegant. It’s ideal for those lazy evenings when you want to eat something fresh without turning on the stove. The creaminess of the burrata plays beautifully against the tart-sweet balsamic and fragrant basil, while the peaches add a floral note that elevates everything. Every bite feels like summer.

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Why You’ll Love This Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata

• Fresh and Flavorful: This salad captures the season with just-picked flavors and textures.
• No Cooking Required: Perfect for hot days when you want something quick and satisfying.
• Elegant Yet Simple: It’s a stunner for entertaining but takes only minutes to assemble.
• Sweet Meets Savory: The sweet peaches with creamy cheese and herby basil create an irresistible combo.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side, light lunch, or even a brunch centerpiece.

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What Kind of Peaches Should I Use?

When it comes to making this Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata, ripe but firm peaches are your best choice. I look for yellow peaches that yield slightly to pressure without being too soft — they hold their shape beautifully when sliced and bring that classic, tangy-sweet flavor. White peaches are also lovely if you prefer a milder, more floral sweetness. Just avoid overripe peaches, which can turn mushy and overpower the salad.

If you can’t find fresh peaches, nectarines are an excellent substitute. They offer a similar texture and flavor, and the big bonus is that you don’t need to peel them. For a slightly more tart take, try plums or apricots — they add an unexpected twist.

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Options for Substitutions

Don’t be afraid to adapt the salad based on what’s in your fridge or at the market. Here are some easy swaps that work beautifully:

• Burrata → Mozzarella or Ricotta: Fresh mozzarella pearls or a scoop of ricotta work well if you don’t have burrata.
• Peaches → Nectarines or Plums: Use nectarines for a no-peel option or plums for added tang.
• Basil → Mint or Arugula: Mint brings freshness while arugula adds a peppery bite.
• Balsamic Glaze → Honey + Vinegar Drizzle: Mix a little honey with balsamic vinegar for a DIY sweet-tangy finish.
• Flaky Salt → Sea Salt or Kosher Salt: Any good quality salt will enhance the flavors, but go easy — a pinch goes a long way.

These small tweaks allow the salad to remain just as vibrant and satisfying while suiting your taste or pantry.

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Ingredients for This Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata

Each component in this salad is chosen with purpose — simplicity is key, so quality really matters. Here’s what goes into making it special:

• Peaches: The star of the dish. Their juicy sweetness creates a vibrant contrast to the creamy cheese and tangy glaze.
• Burrata Cheese: Luxuriously soft and creamy, burrata adds a rich texture that ties all the ingredients together.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds a fragrant, herbal brightness that lifts every bite.
• Balsamic Glaze: This syrupy drizzle provides deep sweetness and acidity — a bold finish that unites sweet and savory.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light drizzle enhances the richness and brings a silky finish.
• Flaky Sea Salt: A pinch of this intensifies the flavors and provides a pleasant crunch.
• Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Adds depth and a subtle bite, grounding the dish.

The beauty of this salad lies in the balance between creamy, crisp, sweet, and sharp — and how these ingredients come together effortlessly.

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Step 1: Slice the Peaches

Start by washing and drying your peaches. Slice them into ½-inch thick rounds or wedges, depending on your presentation preference. Make sure they’re ripe but not too soft, so they hold their shape nicely.

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Step 2: Plate the Peaches and Burrata

Arrange the peach slices on a large serving plate or platter. Gently tear the burrata into smaller pieces and nestle them between the peaches. Don’t worry about it looking perfect — the rustic, casual layering is part of the charm.

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Step 3: Add the Basil

Tuck fresh basil leaves in and around the peaches and cheese. You can leave them whole for a bold look or tear them for a more subtle presentation and better distribution of flavor.

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Step 4: Drizzle with Balsamic and Olive Oil

Drizzle balsamic glaze generously over the salad, followed by a light pour of good-quality extra virgin olive oil. This combo enhances sweetness and brings depth without overpowering the other ingredients.

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Step 5: Season and Serve

Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt and a few turns of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately while the peaches are juicy and the burrata is creamy.

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How Long to Cook the Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata

Good news — there’s absolutely no cooking involved in this recipe. It’s entirely no-heat, making it ideal for hot days or quick prep. From start to finish, the salad comes together in about 10 minutes, depending on how fast you slice and arrange. It’s one of the fastest dishes that looks like it took real effort.

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Tips for Perfect Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata

• Use ripe but firm peaches: They should be fragrant and slightly soft to the touch but still hold their shape when sliced.
• Let the burrata sit at room temperature: This brings out its full creamy texture and flavor.
• Layer ingredients loosely: Don’t crowd the plate — allow each element to stand out.
• Drizzle glaze just before serving: To keep the textures fresh and vibrant.
• Salt right at the end: Flaky salt can dissolve quickly, so sprinkle it just before serving for the best effect.
• Choose quality over quantity: With only a handful of ingredients, using the best versions of each makes all the difference.

This salad thrives on simplicity, so slow down and enjoy the process of layering beauty on a plate.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even with a simple recipe like Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata, a few easy missteps can dull the dish. Here’s what to avoid:

• Using under-ripe or overripe peaches: Too firm and they’re bland; too soft and they’ll turn mushy on the plate.
• Skipping the seasoning: A touch of salt and pepper is crucial to balance sweetness and highlight the cheese.
• Cold burrata: Straight from the fridge, burrata can be too firm and miss its signature creaminess.
• Overloading the balsamic glaze: A little goes a long way — too much and it can overpower the delicate flavors.
• Cutting everything too early: Peaches can brown and soften if prepped too far ahead. Slice just before assembling.

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What to Serve With Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata?

This salad is versatile and pairs well with a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or centerpiece, here are some excellent companions:

Grilled Chicken

The smoky, savory flavor of grilled chicken contrasts beautifully with the sweet peaches and creamy cheese.

Crusty Bread or Focaccia

Perfect for scooping up creamy burrata and soaking up the balsamic and peach juices.

Prosciutto or Salami

Add some cured meats on the side for a more robust appetizer board or light dinner.

Sparkling Wine or Rosé

Light, fruity wines pair wonderfully with the fresh summer ingredients.

Arugula Salad

A peppery green salad can complement the sweetness of the peaches with a bite of bitterness.

Chilled Pasta Salad

Something light and lemony would round out the meal without stealing the spotlight.

Roasted Nuts

A sprinkle of toasted almonds or pistachios can add crunch and nutty contrast if serving buffet-style.

Tomato Gazpacho

This refreshing chilled soup balances well as a cool starter alongside the salad.

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Storage Instructions

Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata is best enjoyed fresh, ideally right after assembly when the peaches are juicy and the burrata is perfectly creamy. However, if you do have leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the peaches may soften and the burrata can lose its texture.
• Separate elements if possible: If you know in advance you’ll have leftovers, store the peaches, burrata, and basil separately and assemble when ready to eat.
• Avoid freezing: Neither peaches nor burrata freeze well — the texture degrades significantly after thawing.

If the salad has already been dressed with balsamic glaze and oil, expect the basil to wilt and the cheese to loosen slightly by the next day. Still tasty, just not as pretty.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough nutritional estimate per serving (assuming the recipe serves 4):

• Calories: ~240
• Fat: ~18g
• Saturated Fat: ~8g
• Carbohydrates: ~12g
• Sugar: ~10g
• Protein: ~7g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sodium: ~220mg

These values can vary depending on your portions and the specific brands or varieties used, especially the burrata and balsamic glaze.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to cut peaches for this salad?

Slice them into thin wedges or rounds — about ½-inch thick. This helps them layer nicely and makes each bite balanced with cheese and basil.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance, but it’s best to assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

What’s a good alternative to burrata?

Fresh mozzarella or ricotta are excellent substitutes. Mozzarella offers a similar texture, while ricotta gives a softer, spreadable option.

Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar?

No — balsamic glaze is a reduced, sweetened version of balsamic vinegar. It’s thicker and more concentrated. If using vinegar, reduce the amount or mix with a little honey.

Can I use canned or frozen peaches?

Fresh is highly recommended for this salad. Canned or frozen peaches tend to be too soft and syrupy, which can overwhelm the dish.

What’s the best olive oil to use?

Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a fruity or peppery finish. Since the oil is uncooked, its flavor matters.

Should I peel the peaches?

Not necessary! The skin adds color and a little texture. If you prefer a softer bite, you can blanch and peel them, but it’s optional.

Can I add tomatoes?

Yes — adding heirloom or cherry tomatoes gives the salad a more traditional Caprese twist with even more color and juiciness.

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Conclusion

Peach Caprese Salad with Burrata is a perfect example of how a few thoughtful ingredients can create something truly memorable. With no cooking and just a few minutes of prep, this dish celebrates the best of summer produce in the most elegant way. Whether you’re entertaining or simply treating yourself, it’s a dish that delivers beauty, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite.

Stay tuned for the printable recipe layout in the next section — perfect for saving or sharing!

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